But God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8
When is the last time you used the word “sin”?
We don’t use the word sin very often. It is uncomfortable to talk about. We like to say, “doing wrong” or “breaking a rule”. But sin is deeper than that.
God is loving, merciful and gracious. He has given us ways to live in order to help us understand those things, which are part of His nature and character. Sin is the opposite.
It makes sense that if who we are is “the opposite” of who God is that we cannot be close to Him. How can we have a relationship if everything we think and do is contrary to who He is? But God wants to be with us, He desires that relationship. Even though we think and act in ways completely apart from Him, ways that sadden and break His heart, He still wants to show us He loves us.
Jesus died for us. His death and resurrection brought about a change, now we are forgiven and our sinfulness is undone. We now are no longer “the opposite” of who God is. We are His children. Instead of trying to understand Him with “dos and don’ts”, we begin to understand Him as our Father.
We experience His love and mercy and grace because we know Him. It is not about rules and regulations, it is about knowing the one who loves us. We are no longer opposites. I was a sinner, but now I am a loved child. Now I know God!